Princess Wall Plates: The Elegant Alternative to Standard Wall Plates
When most people think of decorative electrical wall plates, they picture either a standard-size wall plate or an oversized (jumbo) wall plate. However, there is another style that has been admired by homeowners, designers, and architects for decades: the Princess Wall Plate.
Princess wall plates combine classic proportions with an elegant profile that instantly gives switches and outlets a more refined appearance. While they are less common today than standard wall plates, they remain a favorite for restoration projects, upscale homes, commercial interiors, and anyone looking for something more distinctive than an ordinary cover plate.
At Wallplate.Store, we carry a wide selection of Princess wall plates in multiple gang configurations and finishes, making it easy to give your electrical devices a timeless, finished look.
What Is a Princess Wall Plate?
A Princess wall plate differs from a standard wall plate in both its size and its styling.
For a one-gang wall plate:
- Standard Size: 4.5" high × 2.75" wide
- Princess Size: 5" high × 2.75" wide
Notice that the width stays exactly the same while the height increases by approximately half an inch.
This added height creates a longer, more graceful appearance while still fitting the same electrical box and using the same mounting screw locations as a standard wall plate.
As the number of gangs increases, Princess wall plates continue to maintain this taller profile while increasing in width to accommodate additional switches or receptacles.
Princess Is Both a Size and a Style
One of the biggest misconceptions is thinking that "Princess" refers only to the dimensions.
In reality, Princess wall plates are known for two characteristics:
- Their taller dimensions.
- Their elegant edge profile.
Traditional standard wall plates typically feature a flat face with a distinct beveled edge. The bevel creates a crisp transition from the face of the plate to the wall.
Princess wall plates use a much softer design. Instead of an abrupt bevel, the edges transition into the wall with a smooth, flowing contour that gives the plate a refined appearance. This subtle curved profile catches light differently and creates a more decorative look without being overly ornate.
Many designers appreciate Princess wall plates because they add visual interest while remaining clean and understated.
Princess vs. Standard vs. Jumbo Wall Plates
| Feature | Standard | Princess | Jumbo / Oversized |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Gang Height | 4.5" | 5" | 5.5" |
| 1-Gang Width | 2.75" | 2.75" | 3.5" |
| Coverage | Standard | Taller only | Taller and wider |
| Edge Profile | Beveled | Smooth, flowing contour | Beveled |
| Main Purpose | General installations | Decorative elegance | Cover wall imperfections |
Why Choose Princess Wall Plates?
There are several reasons homeowners and electricians continue to choose Princess wall plates.
Elegant Appearance
The taller proportions naturally draw the eye upward and create a more balanced appearance around switches and outlets. Combined with the smooth edge profile, Princess wall plates offer a premium look that complements both traditional and contemporary interiors.
A Decorative Upgrade Without Looking Oversized
Many people want something that stands out but don't want the large appearance of an oversized wall plate.
Princess wall plates offer an excellent middle ground. They provide a more decorative presence while maintaining the same width as a standard plate.
Fits Standard Electrical Devices
Princess wall plates are designed to fit standard switches, receptacles, GFCIs, decorator devices, and other common wiring devices. They mount to the same electrical boxes as standard wall plates.
Ideal for Historic Homes
Princess wall plates have been popular for many decades and remain an excellent choice for restoration projects and older homes where maintaining a classic architectural style is important.
Available in Multiple Gang Configurations
Princess wall plates aren't limited to single switches.
They are available in multiple gang sizes for larger installations, allowing you to maintain a consistent appearance throughout an entire room or building.
Common configurations include:
- 1 Gang
- 2 Gang
- 3 Gang
- 4 Gang
- 5 Gang
- 6 Gang
Each maintains the same taller profile while increasing in width as additional gangs are added.
Available in Beautiful Finishes
One of the advantages of shopping at Wallplate.Store is the wide variety of finishes available.
Princess wall plates are available in both painted metal finishes and architectural metal finishes, making them an excellent choice for everything from residential homes to commercial buildings and historic restorations.
Our most popular finish is White Semi-Gloss Painted Steel, but we also offer many additional options to complement virtually any décor or architectural style.
Depending on the wall plate configuration, Princess wall plates are available in finishes including:
- White Semi-Gloss Painted Steel
- White Wrinkle Painted Steel
- Ivory Semi-Gloss Painted Steel
- Ivory Wrinkle Painted Steel
- Brown Wrinkle Painted Steel
- Almond Wrinkle Painted Steel
- Zinc Coat (Paint Ready)
- Type 304 Satin Stainless Steel
- Type 430 Satin Stainless Steel
- Mirror Polish Chrome-Plated Steel
- Satin Brass
- Polished Brass-Plated Steel
- Brushed Brass-Plated Steel
Whether you're matching existing hardware, restoring a historic property, or designing a high-end commercial space, Princess wall plates offer a timeless appearance with finish options that range from classic painted steel to premium stainless steel, brass, and chrome.
When Should You Choose a Princess Wall Plate Instead of a Jumbo?
This is one of the most common questions customers ask.
Choose a Princess wall plate when:
- You want a more elegant, decorative appearance.
- You prefer the taller proportions.
- You like the smooth, flowing edge profile.
- Your wall opening is already neatly cut.
Choose a Jumbo (Oversized) wall plate when:
- You need additional coverage around the electrical box.
- The drywall or paint around the box has imperfections.
- You recently remodeled and need to hide larger openings.
- You want maximum wall coverage.
Although both Princess and Jumbo wall plates are larger than standard plates, they serve different purposes. Princess emphasizes elegance and style, while Jumbo primarily provides additional wall coverage.
Typical princess style wall plate. Item shown is a 3-gang, toggle switch configuration wall plate in white semi-gloss metal finish.
Why Buy Princess Wall Plates from Wallplate.Store?
Princess wall plates have become increasingly difficult to find at local home improvement stores. Most big-box retailers focus almost exclusively on standard and oversized sizes, leaving homeowners and contractors searching for specialty suppliers.
At Wallplate.Store, specialty wall plates are what we do. We stock hard-to-find configurations, multiple gang sizes, specialty device combinations, and numerous finishes that are rarely available locally.
Whether you're replacing a single wall plate or outfitting an entire home, you'll find professional-quality products designed to provide years of reliable service and an exceptional finished appearance.
Final Thoughts
Princess wall plates are one of those small details that can make a surprisingly big difference in a room's appearance. Their taller dimensions, graceful edge profile, and timeless styling create a refined look that has remained popular for generations.
If you're looking for a wall plate that offers something more elegant than a standard cover—but without the bulk of an oversized plate—a Princess wall plate may be exactly what you're looking for.
Browse our collection of Princess wall plates today and discover why this classic style continues to be a favorite among homeowners, electricians, architects, and interior designers.